Cuban citizens who reside in the United States and meet certain requirements can apply for citizenship in the North American territory, however, this process is a bit strict, so it is recommended to avoid some very common failures that may end up negatively affecting the application. .
According to immigration lawyer Abel Zaldívar on his YouTube channel, one of the keys when applying for citizenship is honesty and transparency in the naturalization process, since this is an opportunity that the nation offers to those who demonstrate have a commitment and respect for the laws and values in the US.
The expert indicated that one of the most common problems experienced by applicants is due to a lack of sincerity when entering the United States. In that sense, he maintains that the truth is essential from the first day at a port of entry, especially when it comes to sensitive issues such as criminal history or membership in certain organizations.
Lying about belonging to certain totalitarian parties or criminal organizations, as well as committing fraud to obtain immigration benefits, may work at first, but will eventually cause problems when trying to naturalize in the country.
Likewise, if the authorities discover someone who committed this type of fraud, they can revoke a citizenship that had already been granted.
In the worst cases, the person could end up deported because of this lack of transparency, since the oath of loyalty to the US is a serious commitment, and loyalty to another government or participation in actions against the US are considered treason.
The jurist recommends that those with criminal records or complex situations, in addition to being honest when interrogating the North American authorities, obtain appropriate legal advice.
What are the requirements to apply for citizenship in the US?
- Permanent residence: A person must have a permanent residence card, known as a Green Card, and have lived in the country as a legal permanent resident for at least five years. (This period is reduced to three years for spouses of US citizens.)
- Physical presence: The interested party must have been physically present in the United States for at least half of the required residence time, that is, 2.5 of the 5 years or 1.5 of the 3 required for citizens and their spouses.
- Continuous residence: The interested party must not have left the US for a long period of time (generally more than 6 months).
- Age: To apply for citizenship, the interested party must be at least 18 years of age at the time of submitting the documentation.
- Moral character: The person must demonstrate that they have had good moral character during their residence in the United States. This means complying with the laws and values of the country.
- Knowledge of US history and government: To obtain citizenship, the interested party must pass a civics exam that contains knowledge of the history and government of the North American nation.
- Knowledge of the English language: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to speak, read and write in English at a basic level, with certain exceptions due to age and length of residence in the country.
- Oath of loyalty: Those interested in obtaining citizenship must be willing to take an oath of allegiance to the United States, which implies renouncing previous loyalties to other countries or governments. Likewise, they agree to support and defend the Constitution and the laws of the country.
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